ILA reaffirms strike threat as shippers explore alternatives

Posted on September 16, 2024   |  

The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) plans to strike on October 1, 2024, if a new contract isn’t agreed upon before the current one ends on September 30.

In early September 2024, ILA members unanimously voted to support a coastwide strike.

The strike is set to begin at 12:01 AM on October 1, 2024, if negotiations fail.

If the strike happens, East Coast ports may see a 13% overflow, delaying operations by 6 days for each day of the strike.

Ports will face a container backlog once the strike ends, increasing pressure on normal operations.

Smaller cargo could be shifted to the West Coast to avoid delays, but larger cargo might have a different option.

The strike's impact will depend on the size and type of cargo being transported.